Israel says it doesn't plan to control life in Palestine after destroying Hamas

Israel's defence minister Yoav Gallant said the country did not have plans to maintain control over civilians in Gaza after its war against the Hamas militant group.

Gallant's comments to lawmakers were the first time a top Israeli official discussed its long-term plans for Gaza.

Gallant said Israel expected a three-phase war, starting with airstrikes and ground maneuvers. It anticipates then defeating pockets of resistance, and finally, ceasing Israel's “responsibility for life in the Gaza Strip.”